1. Facemasks in the Blue Lagoon
A mere 22 minutes from the Reykjavik Airport, the Blue Lagoon is a stop you can’t miss! The hot water, mixed with the cool Iceland air, creates a mystic bathing experience. There can be hundreds of people in the water without it feeling crowded because the steam absorbs noise and allows groups to feel separate. Not only is this a relaxing experience, but it’s also great for skin care. The experience is well worth your time. Oh, and a word to the wise, put a lot of conditioner in your hair prior to entering the water (you’ll regret it if you don’t)!
2. See seals and puffins
Iceland may not have polar bears and penguins, but it does have seals, puffins, and whales. Seals lounge near the water on rocks and can be spotted if you look hard enough. The seals’ playful nature makes for an entertaining stop on your journey. The best way to spot puffins is through their bright orange beaks. Iceland is home to 60% of the world’s puffins and these cute birds are entertaining to watch swoop through the air.
3. Go on a Caving Tour (Vatnshellir)
Many people don’t envision a caving experience when they think of Iceland, but there are more caves than you’d expect! If you’re wanting to go on one of these underground adventures, summer is definitely the best time to visit. Vatnshellir is a colorful lava cave with beautiful colors and patterns that aren’t easily forgotten. A dive underground gives a flipside view of Iceland.
4. Visit rock formations like Arnarstapi
The warmer summer weather provides a chance to explore the many rock formations in Iceland. One of the most popular stops is Arnarstapi, popular for the arching rocks over the ocean water. Arnarstapi is one of the most picturesque and beautiful stops that will simply leave you awestruck. Don’t miss it!
5. Spend time in a fishing town--Sudureyri (Suðureyri)
Many of the small towns in the fjords of Iceland are fishing towns filled with kind, local people. Whether you spend a day on a fishing boat, tour a fish factory, or even simply taste fresh or dried fish, your Iceland experience would not be complete without a fish experience.
6. Explore waterfalls for DAYS
There are around 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland which means as you drive, you see more breathtaking waterfalls than you could ever imagine. Every single one of these amazing falls would be worth hiking miles to see. Many of them, however, you can see by simply pulling your car over and taking a short walk. If there’s one waterfall to be sure and stop for, however, it’s Skogafoss Waterfall in Rangarping Eystra, Iceland. At sunset, the colors dance through the water and create a colorful, priceless image.
7. Kayak in the Fjord
Road tripping around Iceland can become exhaustive; taking a break and viewing the land from the water can be just the change of scenery you may need. Kayaking the waves and Iceland water is a fun and thrilling adventure.
8. Explore towns and play in parks
Sometimes it isn’t the big activities, but the small moments that give you the greatest love of a place. The small towns and cities are filled with fun parks and shops. Take a moment out of the car, or off the beaten path, and walk a day in the shoes of a local. The streets are welcoming and calm; imagine what life would be like if this was your home.
9. Whale Watch
Whale watching trips out of Reykjavik or Akureyri are an obvious highlight. The giant whales you get to see are majestic and breathtaking. If you’re lucky, the whale watching excursions may provide full body suits (pictured below) to help keep you warm. They may not be top of the line in style, but they do a great job of keeping you warm.
10. Go horseback riding
Icelandic horses are kind and docile animals. They know their home countryside well and although they’re smaller than many horses, they are easy to connect with. The only downside is sore legs if you’re not used to riding.
11. Hike Volcanoes
If you get tired of hiking waterfalls (is that possible??) switch up your scenery and visit some of Iceland’s volcanoes. The most famous, and still active, is volcano Hekla, but any volcano is fun to explore.
12. Drive “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” road
Iceland seemed to move up the list on people’s top places to visit when “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” movie highlighted the beautiful country. Nothing quite beats the famous road that Walter longboards down, with the waterfall and sharp winding corners. Although not a long stop, this road is a good one to pass through.
13. Polar plunge in the Northern Atlantic ocean
Contrary to many beliefs, Iceland does have some beaches. Polar plunges may be higher on a list of crazy things to do in Iceland, but running into the Atlantic ocean in Iceland is a memory you won’t forget. Build a fire on the beach and make a day of it. It’s a fun way to relax.
14. See glaciers
Iceland had to get its name from somewhere, and if it isn’t for the constant freezing weather, it has to be because of all the ice. Coming in at 269 glaciers, Iceland is 11% ice. These massive structures are beautifully breathtaking to look at. Stop and see a few! If you’re lucky, one could break off right in front of your eyes (it did in front of mine).
15. Snorkel between the tectonic plates
Iceland is the only place in the world where you can snorkel between two continental plates. The water in Silfra is clear as can be and you can only dream of how deep the water must go. For this freezing experience, you get to put on a dry suit that helps you to float peacefully through this serene experience.
Post written by Tiffany Milar